March 14-18, 2011 is Flood Awareness Week for the state of Georgia. Floods are no stranger to the Southeast, with 18 reports of flash flooding occurring in North and Central Georgia in 2010, causing $1.2 million in damage. The Epic Floods of September 2009 greatly impacted many Georgia counties, resulting in 10 deaths, 1 injury, and an estimated $500 million in damages from flooding and flash flooding combined. This week is the prime opportunity to learn about and prepare for flooding events. This year, the topics to be covered include:

When flooding occurs, we rely on our partners and customers to report flooding in their communities! Not only do these reports help the National Weather Service verify warnings, but they help meteorologists and hydrologists better relate radar and rain gauge data to corresponding weather. If you observe flooding in your area, report it to the National Weather Service at 1-866-763-4466. To learn more about the spotter program, visit the Storm Spotter Information page.